Play your part

If we each reduce our own carbon footprint, we can make a real impact on reducing climate change. Here are some simple steps you can take:

  • Replace your old fridge freezer with an energy efficient version and save £45 a year.

  • Only boil as much water as you need. Boiling a full kettle for just one cup of tea will generate up to eight times more carbon dioxide emissions.

  • Switch off all appliances when not in use. The average household wastes £37 a year by leaving appliances on standby. Mobile phone chargers left plugged in waste over £60m across the UK, accounting for a quarter of a million tonnes of CO2 emissions each year.

  • Use energy efficient light bulbs –they last 12 times longer than standard bulbs and cut energy wastage by over three quarters.

  • Invest in cavity wall insulation and reduce your heating bill by £125 per year – some 30% of heat simply escapes through the walls.

  • Turn your thermostat down just 1°C and save 10% on your bills.

  • Rethink your rubbish - reduce, reuse or recycle it, instead of throwing it in the bin.

You may also wish to visit the following websites for information on further ways of saving money, including green funding initiatives:

  • Calculate your own carbon footprint external link
    Visit the Directgov website to use the 'Act On CO2 calculator' and work out your carbon footprint.

  • Green Electricity Marketplace external link
    Many electricity companies are now offering a 'green' tariff. But which tariffs are best, and which lead to more electricity being generated from renewable sources? This website gives you details of the 'green' tariffs on offer to UK domestic customers.

  • The Energy Saving Trust external link
    Visit the 'Home Improvements' page of the website for advice on simple energy and cost saving improvements you can make to your home.

  • Scottish Community and Householder Renewables Initiative external link
    Jointly managed by the Energy Savings Trust and Highlands and Islands Enterprise, the Scottish Community and Householder Renewables Initiative (SCHRI) is a one-stop shop offering grants, advice and project support for new community and household renewable schemes in Scotland.

Use the menu on the left side of the screen to see what other steps you can take.